The official currency in Birmanie is the "kyat" (MMK), pronounced "chat". Burmese coins called "pya" no longer circulate on the market. Only banknotes remain in use:

• 50 MMK
• 100 MMK
• 200 MMK
• 500 MMK
• 1000 MMK
• 5000 MMK
• 10,000 MMK

Historically, the kyat was a unit of weight used by successive monarchs of the Birmanie kingdom. One kyat was equivalent to 16.32 grams.

Unlike Western countries, cash remains far more prevalent in Asia than credit card transactions. The 10,000 MMK banknotes are better suited for tourists and business travelers, while smaller denominations are more commonly used by locals.

Payment Methods in Myanmar

Cash

The primary payment method in Birmanie, kyat banknotes give you the freedom to pay for and purchase whatever you need.

And how do you obtain kyats?

• You can exchange your dollars or euros for kyats at currency exchange offices, banks, the airport, the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, or the Bogyoke market. Banks offer the most competitive exchange rates.
• You can withdraw cash at ATMs located throughout Myanmar's major cities. Note, however, that withdrawal fees of 5,000 MMK or even 10,000 MMK apply, and the maximum amount per withdrawal is capped at 300,000 MMK. The daily limit is set at 1,000,000 MMK. Be aware that these ATMs don't always function reliably.

Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., five days a week, Myanmar's banks accept and issue Mastercard and Visa. You can visit major banks such as KBZ Bank, AGD Bank, or CB Bank